Countdown to Polling Day: 80 Days to Go

Suleman Chitera, Lilongwe, June 28, 2025

Malawi today enters the 80-day countdown to one of the most anticipated events on its democratic calendar — the Tripartite Elections slated for September 16, 2025. On that day, millions of eligible Malawians will head to polling stations to elect their next President, Members of Parliament, and Local Government councillors.

With preparations intensifying across the country, the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has been urging all stakeholders — political parties, candidates, and voters — to familiarize themselves with key electoral guidelines and timelines to ensure a smooth and credible electoral process.

Did You Know?

A lesser-known but crucial rule in the run-up to the elections is that Parliamentary and Local Government aspirants can contest in any constituency or ward in Malawi — even outside the area where they are registered as voters. The only requirement is that they must secure at least ten (10) nomination signatures from registered voters in the constituency or ward they intend to represent.

“This provision is designed to promote wider political participation and allow candidates to stand where they believe they can best serve,” said a spokesperson for MEC.

As the political atmosphere grows more charged, voters across the country are being encouraged to engage peacefully and responsibly — attending campaign rallies, participating in debates, and scrutinizing manifestos to make informed choices.

With just under three months to go, all eyes are now on the candidates and parties as the final leg of campaign preparations kicks off. The clock is ticking. Democracy awaits.